Wireless broadband button on a laptop.
Broadband wireless access has revolutionized computing by giving users access to high-speed Internet almost anywhere. When choosing wireless broadband technology, determine what type of device it will be used on, where it will be used and how much speed is needed.
Smartphones
Smartphones are cellular phones with third-generation (3G) or fourth-generation (4G) wireless broadband. Nearly all cellular carriers in the U.S. now offer 3G phones that deliver data speeds of approximately 2 megabits per second (Mbps). This enables basic web browsing on your phone. Newer 4G networks deliver speeds of 10 to 21 Mbps, with future speeds possibly reaching 1 gigabit per second. This makes it possible to watch high-definition video or perform other bandwidth-intensive activities.
Laptop Mobile Internet Cards
To equip a laptop computer with mobile broadband access, purchase a mobile Internet card. Most of the major wireless carriers offer cards that work anywhere they offer 3G cellular coverage, with newer cards that work with 4G networks. Each carrier charges a monthly fee for access, typically around $50 to $60, as of 2010.
Wireless Mobile Routers
To extend an Internet card's coverage, purchase a wireless mobile router to turn the card's service into a Wi-Fi hotspot that can be used by several computers, either on the go or as a substitute for cable or telephone-based broadband Internet at home.
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